With Honiara’s inclusion as a regular scheduled port call under the Bali Hai Service, its shipping agents are anticipating faster and more reliable services from Fiji.

Pacific Agencies (Fiji) Limited general manager, Craig Strong, said the inclusion increases the overall Swire Shipping service offer and reinforces commitment to Fiji.

“This reinforces Swire Shipping’s continuing focus on the ‘Fiji Hub Concept,” he said.

“This is extremely positive for exporters as they now have another option in getting their products to one of our Melanesian Spearhead Group Partners.”

This enhancement is specifically aimed at offering importers a fast and reliable service from Fiji and other South Pacific Islands direct access into Honiara.

The target cargo type for this route for Fijian exporters would be Fijian Made/Manufactured goods along with traded merchandise.

Mr Strong said this service was primarily aimed at offering exporters to Honiara a fast and reliable service from Fiji and other Pacific Islands.

“This will also complement Honiara exporters who now have a direct service to key Japanese and Korean ports,” he said.

The first Bali Hai vessel to call Honiara will be Highland Chief V1406, with an ETA into Honiara on November 4.

“This is an exciting development and we are confident that this will lead to significant benefits to importers and exporters alike,” Mr Strong said.

Since the commencement of the new Bali Hai service in February, the trade has seen strong support.

Swire Shipping, through their own direct coverage and other partnerships, are able to provide up to six sailings per month from Asia to the South Pacific with the most comprehensive port coverage and market access.

Background

Bali Hai offers dedicated sailings connecting Asia and the South Pacific, as well as accessing services from Australasia, United States of America and Europe.

The service delivers the fastest transit times to and from Asia and key South Pacific markets.

With a proud history of 35 years linking Asia to the South Pacific, Bali Hai continues to lead the way with services for all types of cargo, including general and reefer containers, vehicles, breakbulk, heavy lift and project cargoes.

a